Golf club grip pressure feedback device and method of use

ABSTRACT

Devices and methods directed to golf training devices for providing feedback to the user on the grip pressure exerted on the golf club grip. In embodiments, the device is comprised of a grip configured to be coupled with the end portion of a golf club shaft. The grip is also comprised of at least one fluid reservoir portion, at least one fluid channel portion, fluid, and at least one feedback indicator portion. The fluid reservoir portions, in embodiments, are positioned within the grip. In other embodiments, the fluid reservoir portions are positioned on the inside surface of the grip between the grip and the golf shaft. In yet other embodiments, the fluid reservoir portions are positioned on the outside surface of the grip. The fluid reservoir portions are connected to at least one fluid channel portion. The fluid channel portions are connected to at least one feedback indicator portion.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit under Title 35 United States Code §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.: 62/305,574; Filed: Mar. 9, 2016, the full disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

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THE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

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INCORPORATING-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC

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SEQUENCE LISTING

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FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to devices and methods directed to golf training devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to devices and methods directed to golf training devices for providing feedback to the user on the grip pressure exerted on the golf club grip.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Without limiting the scope of the disclosed device and method, the background is described in connection with a novel golf training device for providing feedback to the user on the grip pressure exerted on the golf club grip.

As a first example of a reference in the prior art, U.S. Pat. No. 8,944,929 issued to Timithy M. Smith on Feb. 3, 2015 utilizes lights, electronic sensors, and batteries. While the reference may accomplish the goal of providing grip pressure feedback to a user, it requires complex electronics as well as a power source to operate. This approach has several drawbacks such as the power source not being available, the electronics failing, the light bulbs failing, and the indicator lights being positioned at the bottom end around the grip.

As a second example of a reference in the prior art, U.S. Pat. No. 8,540,591 issued to Michael Dominick Slane on Sep. 24, 2013 utilizes pressure sensors that trigger audible devices and illuminate a light emitting diode. While this approach may accomplish the goal of providing grip pressure feedback to a user, it requires complex electronics as well as a power source to operate. This approach has the same drawbacks such as the power source not being available, the electronics failing, and the light bulbs failing.

While some approaches may fulfill their unique purposes, none of them fulfill the need for a practical, efficient, and effective means for providing feedback to the user on the grip pressure exerted on the golf club grip.

The present invention therefore proposes a novel device and method for feedback on the grip pressure exerted on the golf club grip without the use of electronics or a power source that is easy to use.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention, therefore, provides for a golf training device for providing feedback on the grip pressure exerted on the golf club grip.

In one embodiment, the device is comprised of a grip configured to be coupled with the end portion of a golf club shaft. The grip is also comprised of at least one fluid reservoir portion, at least one fluid channel portion, fluid, and at least one feedback indicator portion.

The fluid reservoir portions, in embodiments, are positioned within the grip. In other embodiments, the fluid reservoir portions are positioned on the inside surface of the grip between the grip and the golf shaft. In yet other embodiments, the fluid reservoir portions are positioned on the outside surface of the grip. In other embodiments, the reservoir portions are positioned in the shaft of the golf club.

The fluid reservoir portions are connected to at least one fluid channel portion. The fluid channel portions are connected to at least one feedback indicator portion. The fluid channel portion allows fluid to move from the fluid reservoir portion to the feedback indicator portion.

In summary, the present invention discloses devices and methods directed to golf training devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to devices and methods directed to golf training devices for providing feedback to the user on the grip pressure exerted on the golf club grip.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention, reference is now made to the detailed description of the invention along with the accompanying figures in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an iron golf club fitted with the golf club grip pressure feedback device in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the grip portion of the golf club showing the layout of the golf club grip pressure feedback device in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a close-up of the cross sectional view of the grip portion of the golf club showing the fluid reservoir portion of the golf club grip pressure feedback device in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a top view of the feedback indicator portion of the golf club grip pressure feedback device illustrating a proper grip pressure in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a top view of the feedback indicator portion of the golf club grip pressure feedback device illustrating an improper grip pressure in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a top view of the feedback indicator portion of the golf club grip pressure feedback device illustrating the fluid flow channels in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed herein are devices and methods directed to a golf club grip pressure feedback device. The numerous innovative teachings of the present invention will be described with particular reference to several embodiments (by way of example, and not of limitation).

Reference is first made to FIG. 1, a perspective view of an iron golf club fitted with the golf club grip pressure feedback device in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure. While an iron golf club is depicted, the claimed device may be utilized on any of the clubs used in golf such as but not limited to irons, woods, putters, hybrids, and drivers. Illustrated in this figure is the top of the golf club grip 10, the golf club grip 20, the shaft 30 of the golf club, the ferrule 40 of the golf club, and the head 50 of the golf club. Also illustrated in this figure is the feedback indicator portion 350.

Reference is now made to FIG. 2, a cross sectional view of the grip portion of the golf club showing the layout of the golf club grip pressure feedback device in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure.

In one embodiment, the device is comprised of a grip 20 configured to be coupled with the end portion of a golf club shaft. The grip 20 is also comprised of at least one fluid reservoir portion 100, 150, at least one fluid channel portion 300, 310, 320, 330, 340, fluid residing in at least the fluid reservoir portions 100, 150, and at least one feedback indicator portion 350.

The fluid reservoir portions 100, 150, in embodiments, are positioned within the grip. In other embodiments, the fluid reservoir portions 100, 150 are positioned on the inside surface of the grip between the grip 20 and the golf shaft. In yet other embodiments, the fluid reservoir portions 100, 150 are positioned on the outside surface of the grip 20. In other embodiments, the fluid reservoir portions 100, 150 are positioned in the shaft of the golf club.

The fluid reservoir portions 100, 150 are connected to at least one fluid channel portion 300, 310, 320, 330, 340. The fluid channel portions 300, 310, 320, 330, 340 are connected to at least one feedback indicator portion 350. The fluid channel portion 300, 310, 320, 330, 340 allows fluid to move from the fluid reservoir portion 100, 150 to the feedback indicator portion 350.

The fluid reservoir portions 100, 150 holds the fluid used in the device. Illustrated in this figure is a left side fluid reservoir portion 150 having a top side 160, a bottom side 170, a left side 190, and a right side 180. The grip 20 is configured with a grip thickness 360 of material from the outside surface of the grip 20 to the left side 190 of the fluid reservoir portion 150. The grip 20 is also configured with a grip thickness 370 of material from the inside surface of the grip 20 to the right side 180 of the fluid reservoir portion 150. Also illustrated in this figure is a right side fluid reservoir portion 100 having a top side 110, a bottom side 120, a left side 140, and a right side 130. The grip 20 is configured with a grip thickness 380 of material from the inside surface of the grip 20 to the left side 140 of the fluid reservoir portion 100. The grip 20 is also configured with a grip thickness 390 of material from the outside surface of the grip 20 to the right side 130 of the fluid reservoir portion 100.

The device may be configured with one fluid reservoir portion 100, 150 or more than one that may be placed on various locations on the golf club grip 20. The fluid reservoir portion 100, 150 may be of various sizes and shapes. The fluid held may be of various fluids such as but not limited to air, water, and oils.

Reference is next made to FIG. 3, a close-up of the cross sectional view of the grip portion 20 of the golf club showing the fluid reservoir portion 100 of the golf club grip pressure feedback device in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure. Illustrated in this figure is how the fluid reservoir portion 100 may be compressed due to the grip pressure exerted on the fluid reservoir portion 100 by the hands/fingers 400 or grip 400 of the user. The pressure causes the deformation or compression of the fluid reservoir portion 100 thereby forcing the fluid through 410 the fluid channel portions 300, 310, 320, 330, 340 according to the degree of pressure exerted. That is, this device utilizes the fluid displacement to measure the grip pressure exerted on the grip and provides the user of the device a visual indicator on the pressure they are exerting.

Reference is now made to FIG. 4, a top view of the feedback indicator portion 350 of the golf club grip pressure feedback device illustrating a proper grip pressure in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure. Illustrated in this figure is a proper amount of pressure exerted by the user's grip and the result of that pressure being indicated back to the user through the feedback indicator portion 350. The feedback indicator portion 350 has been placed on the top portion 10 of the grip 20 to provide the user of the device an easy to read and see display position. Because the proper grip pressure has been exerted and the right amount of fluid has been displaced from the fluid reservoir portions 100, 150 and through the fluid channel portions 300, 310, 320, 330, 340, only the inner portion 210 in an embodiment of the feedback indicator portion 350 is filled with fluid allowing the “GO” 220 or other marking indicia 220 to become more visible. The outer portion 200 of the feedback indicator portion 350 remains unfilled with fluid. That is, the fluid levels are utilized as grip pressure thresholds. The fluid channel portions 300, 310, 320, 330, 340 may be configured in series to one feedback indicator portion 350 (multiple fluid channels portions connected to one feedback indicator portion) or in parallel to individual feedback indicator portions 350 (each feedback indicator portion is connected to only one fluid channel portion). Combinations of the two may also be utilized.

Reference is next made to FIG. 5, a top view of the feedback indicator portion 350 of the golf club grip pressure feedback device illustrating an improper grip pressure in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure. Illustrated in this figure is an improper amount of pressure exerted by the user's grip and the result of that pressure being indicated back to the user through the feedback indicator portion 350. Because an improper grip pressure has been exerted, the amount of fluid that has been displaced from the fluid reservoir portions 100, 150 and through the fluid channel portions 300, 310, 320, 330, 340, fill the inner portion 210 and outer portion 200 with fluid covering the “GO” 220 or other marking indicia 220.

Reference is lastly made to FIG. 6, a top view of the feedback indicator portion 350 of the golf club grip pressure feedback device illustrating the fluid flow channels in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure. Illustrated in this figure is the fluid directional flow and fluid channels. The fluid channel portion 340 allows the fluid to enter the feedback indicator portion through the initial fluid opening 230. As fluid enters the inner portion 210 is filled first. As the grip pressure is increased further, the additional fluid completely fills the inner portion 210 and then overflows through the additional openings 240, 250, 260, 270 between the inner portion 210 and the outer portion 200 filling the outer portion 200.

In brief, as described herein provides for devices and methods directed to golf training devices for providing feedback to the user on the grip pressure exerted on the golf club grip.

The disclosed devices and methods are generally described, with examples incorporated as particular embodiments of the invention and to demonstrate the practice and advantages thereof. It is understood that the examples are given by way of illustration and are not intended to limit the specification or the claims in any manner.

To facilitate the understanding of this invention, a number of terms may be defined below. Terms defined herein have meanings as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the areas relevant to the present invention.

Terms such as “a”, “an”, and “the” are not intended to refer to only a singular entity, but include the general class of which a specific example may be used for illustration. The terminology herein is used to describe specific embodiments of the invention, but their usage does not delimit the disclosed device or method, except as may be outlined in the claims.

Alternative applications of the device are any instruments or other sport's equipment requiring proper grip pressure. As such, any embodiments comprising a one piece or multi piece device having the structures and/or components as herein disclosed with similar function shall fall into the coverage of claims of the present invention and shall lack the novelty and inventive step criteria.

It will be understood that particular embodiments described herein are shown by way of illustration and not as limitations of the invention. The principal features of this invention can be employed in various embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, numerous equivalents to the specific devices and methods described herein. Such equivalents are considered to be within the scope of this invention and are covered by the claims.

All publications, references, patents, and patent applications mentioned in the specification are indicative of the level of those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. All publications, references, patents, and patent application are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, reference, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

In the claims, all transitional phrases such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of,” respectively, shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases.

The devices and/or methods disclosed and claimed herein can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the present disclosure. While the devices and methods of this invention have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variations may be applied to the devices and/or methods and in the steps or in the sequence of steps of the method described herein without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of the invention.

More specifically, it will be apparent that certain components, which are both shape and material related, may be substituted for the components described herein while the same or similar results would be achieved. All such similar substitutes and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to be within the spirit, scope, and concept of the invention as defined by the appended claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A golf club grip pressure feedback device comprising: a grip configured to be coupled with the end portion of a golf club shaft; said grip comprising at least one fluid reservoir portion; at least one fluid channel portion; wherein said fluid channel portions are connected to at least one said fluid channel portion; fluid; at least one feedback indicator portion; wherein said fluid channel portions are connected to at least one feedback indicator portion.
 2. The device of claim 1, wherein said fluid reservoir portions are positioned within the grip.
 3. The device of claim 1, wherein said fluid reservoir portions are positioned on the inside surface of the grip.
 4. The device of claim 1, wherein said fluid reservoir portions are positioned on the outside surface of the grip.
 5. The device of claim 1, wherein said fluid is air.
 6. The device of claim 1, wherein said fluid is a liquid.
 7. The device of claim 1, wherein said fluid is water.
 8. The device of claim 1, wherein said fluid channel portions are at least two connected in series to one said feedback indicator portion.
 9. The device of claim 2, wherein said fluid channel portions are at least two connected in series to one said feedback indicator portion.
 10. The device of claim 3, wherein said fluid channel portions are at least two connected in series to one said feedback indicator portion.
 11. The device of claim 4, wherein said fluid channel portions are at least two connected in series to one said feedback indicator portion.
 12. The device of claim 1, wherein said fluid channel portions are at least two connected in parallel to individual said feedback indicator portions.
 13. The device of claim 2, wherein said fluid channel portions are at least two connected in parallel to individual said feedback indicator portions.
 14. The device of claim 3, wherein said fluid channel portions are at least two connected in parallel to individual said feedback indicator portions.
 15. The device of claim 4, wherein said fluid channel portions are at least two connected in parallel to individual said feedback indicator portions.
 16. The device of claim 1, wherein said fluid channel portions are connected in series and parallel to said feedback indicator portions.
 17. The device of claim 2, wherein said fluid channel portions are connected in series and parallel to said feedback indicator portions.
 18. The device of claim 3, wherein said fluid channel portions are connected in series and parallel to said feedback indicator portions.
 19. The device of claim 4, wherein said fluid channel portions are connected in series and parallel to said feedback indicator portions.
 20. A golf club grip pressure feedback device comprising: a grip configured to be coupled with the end portion of a golf club shaft; said grip comprising at least one fluid reservoir portion; at least one fluid channel portion; wherein said fluid channel portions are connected to at least one said fluid channel portion; fluid; at least one feedback indicator portion; wherein said fluid channel portions are connected to at least one feedback indicator portion; wherein said feedback indicator portion is positioned on the top of said grip; wherein said fluid reservoir portions are positioned within the grip; and wherein said fluid channel portions are connected in series and parallel to said feedback indicator portions. 